by Shane Henson — November 23, 2011—Facilities Managers who are in charge of their company’s fleet have many things to consider when in the market for a new car, and how much they will have to spend at the gas pump will likely be a major concern. To help consumers, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) have released the 2012 Fuel Economy Guide, providing potential car buyers with information that can help them choose a more efficient new vehicle that saves them money and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
While fuel efficient vehicles come in a variety of fuel types, classes, and sizes, many new advanced technology vehicles debut on this year’s annual list of top fuel economy performers, offered in the guide. Fuel economy leaders within each vehicle category—from two-seaters to large SUVs—include widely available products such as conventional gasoline models and clean diesels.
As the guide indicates, some 2012 models will be displaying a new fuel economy and environment label that provides consumers with more comprehensive fuel efficiency information, including five-year fuel costs or savings compared to the average vehicle, as well as new greenhouse gas and smog ratings. These labels are actually required in model year 2013, but automakers may voluntarily adopt the new labels in model year 2012.
Each vehicle listing in the guide provides an estimated annual fuel cost. The estimate is calculated based on the vehicle’s miles per gallon (mpg) rating and national estimates for annual mileage and fuel prices.
While those preparing to buy a new car will be able to take advantage of increased fuel efficiency, cars slated to come out in 2017 are expected to save consumers even more gas. Building on President Barack Obama’s historic national program, the EPA and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently unveiled their joint proposal to set stronger fuel economy and greenhouse gas pollution standards for model year 2017-2025 passenger cars and light trucks.
The proposed program for model year 2017-2025 passenger cars and trucks is expected to require increases in fuel efficiency equivalent to 54.5 mpg if all reductions were made through fuel economy improvements. These improvements would save consumers an average of up to $6,600 in fuel costs over the lifetime of a model year 2025 vehicle for a net lifetime savings of $4,400 after factoring in related increases in vehicle cost. Overall, the net benefit to society from this rule would total more than $420 billion over the lifetime of the vehicles sold in model year 2017-2025.
